Free Confessions After Dark by Kahlen Aymes Page B

sleek black leather chairs opposite hers. “Angel, I wanted to let you know that I got word the victim is refusing to testify. Apparently, Swanson offered his wife a huge settlement and a quickie divorce to keep it all hush-hush.”
    “But—it’s a criminal matter. It still goes to trial, right? Regardless of what she wants, it isn’t up to her.”
    “Well, yeah, technically, I could push it. But if the victim is called as a hostile witness and then refuses to talk, she’ll be charged with perjury and contempt of court. Frankly, Angel, it’s a huge waste of taxpayer money to take something to trial that we’ll probably lose. And, don’t you think that poor kid’s been through enough?”
    Angel tugged at a tendril that had fallen free from her chignon to softly frame her face. She sighed heavily. “It’s better than knowing that fucker got away with what he did to her! He’ll just do it to someone else! Creeps like Mark Swanson don’t stop because they almost got caught. He’ll just feel empowered, like he can get away with anything!”
    “Angel, there’s not a whole hell of a lot I can do. It’s my job to take cases to court that I can win, and I don’t think I’ll win this.”
    “That bastard!” she breathed. “I’ve never hated anyone so much in my life. Maybe, if I talk to the girl again?” Her face felt like it was on fire even as the color drained from away and desperation clung to her soul. After all of the torment that he’d caused, he would get off scot-free? Her heart fell and she felt like she would vomit, her hands shaking to the point where she had to steady them by smoothing out her navy skirt.
    “It’s doubtful it will help. You can’t win ’em all, Angel. I know how much this means to you, but you have to let it go.”
    “Can’t you stall for a little while? Give me some time to crack this asshole on my own?”
    “It’s too dangerous, Angel.” Kenneth shook his head. “And I’ve already stalled so you could repeat the tests.”
    “He’s threatened me and had his thugs break into Alex’s house. I have to get him on something, for God’s sake!”
    “ You don’t have to do anything! Stay out of it! He’ll screw up on his own; trust me. We just have to wait him out.”
    Her upper teeth gnawed on her lower lip, and Kenneth knew that look well.
    “Angel! It’s not worth it.”
    “Ken, there’s nothing you can say to change my mind. It’s personal now. He’s invaded my life and threatened people I care about.”
    “What will your boyfriend think of you chasing rapists around? You’re too smart to put yourself in such a dangerous position!” Kenneth argued.
    “Alex is no one’s boyfriend!” Angel admonished. “Even if he were, I wouldn’t ask his permission. You know me better than that. But, it’s moot.” She paused, unsure how much she should say. “I’m not seeing him anymore.” She concentrated on keeping her voice steady despite the ache the words caused. The burning behind her eyes resulted in tears welling up. She blinked rapidly and turned away so Kenneth wouldn’t see, absently digging around in her desk drawer.
    Kenneth’s tone softened. “Avery’s reputation is what it is, but I never expected him to be through with you so soon.”
    Her cheeks burned at the implication, but she had no desire to give the wrong impression either. “Naturally, you assume it’s up to him.” She scowled, anger a welcome distraction from the ache in her throat. “That just pisses me off! This is my decision and it has nothing to do with Alex. He’s been… really wonderful.”
    There was a long pause as Kenneth digested the information. “I’m not sure if I’m relieved you’re not with the guy or frustrated because I’m not the reason why. I hoped after this affair burned out, you’d want to try again.”
    Angel’s face crumpled. “Kenneth, I can’t.” Her voice broke slightly. “I’m not leaving Alex because I don’t want to be with him. Swanson